Sometimes, buying larger amounts of cannabis gets you better value for your money, but the savings are moot if your stash loses potency before you can use it. Proper storage is essential to maintaining quality if your marijuana will be in storage for longer than a few weeks.
Before you learn how to store cannabis, start on the right foot in terms of quality and potency by buying the freshest bud in Washington.
How the Environment Affects Cannabis
To understand how to store cannabis, you should have an idea of how environmental factors can degrade it.
Over time, cannabis naturally loses its punch, but it should retain its quality for six to twelve months after purchase if stored properly. The longer it’s in storage, the less potent it will be, but it should still be safe to use if it passes a quick inspection. Check for:
- Mold: Mold usually appears as white, yellow, or grey fuzzy patches, like those found on spoiled food.
- Smell: If the product smells musty or somewhat like sweat, it isn’t safe to use.
- The snap test: A properly cured bud should snap easily between your fingers. If it’s wet or squishy instead, moisture has started to create mold.
It’s vital to dispose of moldy or “expired” cannabis, as it can cause a range of health issues when smoked, including asthma-like symptoms, memory loss, and allergic reactions.
If you find your stash has gone bad, there are a few potential causes to be mindful of as you learn how to store cannabis for freshness.
First, humidity is often the cause of moldy or deteriorating buds. Too much humidity leads to fungal development, but an environment that is too dry can cause the bud to break down and crumble. Storing the product in a larger-than-necessary container can also be an issue because it oxidizes essential terpenes, changing their strength and smell.
Excessive light is also a concern, as sun exposure quickly degrades the potency of cannabis. Similarly, too much heat can worsen the quality of your stash.
The Key to Cannabis Storage for Freshness
You need to keep in mind humidity control, UV protection, and temperature regulation when learning how to store cannabis.
When choosing your storage method, look for airtight containers that are just big enough for your stash to fit without lots of excess trapped air. Do not use clear glass jars that allow light through; choose dark-tinted glass or ceramic options. You can find these at your local dispensary in Washington.
Be sure to store the jar in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or any sources of extra heat (such as space heaters or radiators).
For an added layer of protection, some people choose to freeze marijuana. You can do this with an airtight jar or a vacuum-sealed bag to preserve freshness and potency for up to three months. Freezing is a great way to prevent mold and pest infestations, and contrary to popular belief, it does not cause a loss of trichome as long as you’re careful to freeze only completely dried buds.
The freezer’s lack of light and oxygen will preserve the plant’s terpene content and keep it potent and fragrant until your next use. Simply ensure the container isn’t disturbed or thawed until you’re ready to use it.
Visit Cannabis & Glass
For the freshest cannabis in Spokane, Spokane Valley, or Liberty Lake, check out Cannabis & Glass. Our experts will point you toward the right strains for your needs and supply airtight storage containers to keep your stash fresh.
Visit one of our stores or call 509-710-7118 to learn more about how to store cannabis.
